>>5124748>>5124926>>5125071>>5125088Deciding against sitting alone you settle on being beside the guards, you were all soldiers after all. Feeling a little shy you gingerly approached the two armored soldiers, the pair wore the typical concrete grey vests, padding and helmets. Somewhere under all that protection was the thin clothing you currently wore. Slipping your hand into your pocket you rolled the small dinosaur between your fingers, building up courage as the friction warmed the plastic toy. You felt a little underdressed, joining as they stowed their gear you did the same. Lodging your rather light bag under a seat, ignoring the sidelong glances as you took your seat. The pair eventually fell into their seats as all along the interior, cargo was restrained and passengers were either talking or trying to get comfortable on the thin padding.
Leaning close, you introduce yourself with a stutter to your neighbors. "H-hello I'm Mortimer… I'm a Corporal." You reach out your hand towards the guards, both watch you for a moment. An awkward pause hanging in the air as you kept your hand held out. The nearest guard took it hesitantly and gave you a firm shake. "Guardsman Smith, Second class." He replied, voice deep and gravely, his companion let out a soft chuckle. The noise distinctly feminine, next she reached out as he let go. Taking your hand and shaking it enthusiastically, mimicking Smith's tone. "Guardsman Suranovich, Second Class." You smiled a little embarrassed, cheeks burning as you blushed. "It's good to meet you." You added right after, cursing yourself for not saying it the first time. They both returned the courtesy.
The helicopter began to hum as engines whined and the craft stirred to life. Flight crew shut doors and double checked secured equipment. The noise grew, a steady building storm until you could hear nothing else. For a second you thought you would go deaf, but then the ground fell away. Even though you could feel the metal grating below your feet, you flinched, your soul and breath back on the helipad. Screaming the helicopter rose far into the clouds and as quickly as it had come, the sound was muffled. Resting your beret in your lap, without warning your ears popped uncomfortably as internal seals locked and sound suppression kicked in further. For a few minutes your mind wondered, glancing around the others who whispered amongst themselves or read. Through the small windows you could glimpse nothing but grey clouds. Then an elbow bumped you, turning towards the sources.
